Walgett Shire Council is re - opening former nursing home Kookaburra Court following extensive community consultation.Retired nurse and shire ouncillor Jane Keir says she is delighted the community has had a big win, congratulating Walgett Shire Council on bringing back Kookaburra Court.‘’I am delighted and overwhelmed for the community I loved my time for 5 years nursing at Kookaburra and its proof we have secured its future again," she said.‘’For self-sufficient elderly aged elderly this will be a lovely home away from home,its amazing.’’Earlier this year Council engaged an independent expert to assess a range of options for the facility. Mayor Jasen Ramien said the assessment confirmed that while the building is not viable for use as an aged care home under current regulatory and operational requirements, it remains well suited for communal living.At its meeting on Tuesday 28 October, Council resolved to reopen Kookaburra Court in line with community feedback, providing safe, affordable and supported accommodation for older residents and people living with a disability."Initially, four rooms will be made available for residents aged over 65 or living with a disability who wish to live independently within a shared and secure environment," said Walgett Council General Manger Andrew Brown."Residents will be required to pay a bond and a weekly rental amount, which will include electricity, other utilities, and room and communal area cleaning. Residents will be responsible for providing their own food and personal services."A caretaker will be appointed to manage the day-to-day operation of the facility and support residents, however Council will not be providing health care or personal care services."The remaining four rooms at Kookaburra Court will be made available as short-term accommodation for visiting professionals, helping to offset operational costs and further contribute to the community’s needs.Mayor Jasen Ramien said the reopening of Kookaburra Court demonstrates Council’s willingness to act on community feedback and deliver practical, local solutions.“The community made it clear that they wanted to see Kookaburra Court reopened and used to support local residents."Council has listened and is proud to deliver a positive outcome that provides affordable accommodation and keeps this much-loved facility in community use,” Mayor Ramien said.“As part of this resolution, Council will also continue to advocate strongly to the NSW Government for an increase in aged care and nursing home services for the Walgett Shire community. We know this remains a critical issue for many families, and Council will continue to do all it can to ensure access to appropriate care and accommodation options close to home.”Council will now complete minor internal works, acquire furniture, and undertake external improvements to ensure the property is safe and secure for all residents and guests.Any person seeking further information or wishing to submit an expression of interest for accommodation at Kookaburra Court is encouraged to contact Council and speak with Property Coordinator, Debbie Sibbick, on (02) 6828 6100 or email [email protected].

Three men escaped serious injury near Armatree after a utility rolled upside down off the Castlereagh Highway yesterday. Police said they understand the Toyota Hilux rolled "multiple" times before landing in a table drain at around 1:45pm on Wednesday 5 November. They said a lost tyre may have caused the crash, where NSW Ambulance said the nearest cross street was Armatree Road. The men, in their 20s and 30s, returned a negative breath test. The highway was fully re-opened by 3:20pm The Hilux was towing a box trailer with motorbikes when it rolled. Firefighters also attended the scene.

Driver fatigue, increased travel times, medical attention and isolation are just some of the issues country mayors are citing following news of a proposal federal government road rule change.Western area mayors and councils are in total agreeance that the Federal Governments proposal to reduce default speed limits by 30 kilometres outside built up areas is, according to more than one Mayor, a total load of rubbish.Submissions are being received by government, and these will shape a final Regulatory Impact Analysis regarding proposed changes to the Australian Road Rules.Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) Chairman, Mayor Rick Firman OAM says it is fortunate that State Governments set their road rules, leaving the Federal Government proposal to be just that, a proposal.“Speed kills and like the Australian Government, we acknowledge that. The desire to reduce deaths and injuries on our roads is something we all share,” said Mayor Firman.“However, the proposal to reduce the ‘default’ speed limit from 100km/hr to as little as 70km/hr and the application of a lower speed limit for unsealed roads is beyond excessive and lacks genuine consideration for key concerns for those who actually drive the roads where default speed limits apply.“Additionally, the data cited by the Government is broad and does not specifically refer to unposted or unsealed roads.”Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) Chairman, Mayor Rick Firman OAM - [Image CMA]If these proposals are adopted the CMA Board and Members say reducing speed limits by 30kms mean trip duration will be longer and lead to driver fatigue, an already major cause of death on country roads.“Lowering default speed limits will obviously increase travel times, exacerbating the tyranny of distance issues that impact on those living in smaller towns and villages, increasing their sense of isolation.“This undermines efforts to promote regional livability and population growth.“They’re talking about increasing the travel time to medical attention by 20-30 percent. That could have critical, even life-threatening outcomes and impact quality of life, with rural residents likely to reconsider some medical appointments when facing such as increase to the travel time,” Mayor Firman said.The risk of being killed on a regional or remote road is 11 times higher compared to a road in a major city, but rural and regional mayors feel slowing the default speed limit is far from the best answer.Bogan Shire Mayor Glen Neill - [Image Bogan Shire Council]Bogan Shire Mayor Glen Neill is scathing of the proposal.“This is one of the most ridiculous things I have ever heard. What do they honestly think this will do to people fatigue wise out here on our country roads.In my opinion, the money spent on this would have been far better spent on our roads,” said Mayor Neill.Cobar Shire Council Mayor Jarrod Marsden - [Image CSC]“This proposal is absolutely ridiculous,” echoed Jarrod Marsden Cobar Mayor.“With the fatigue factor that it would add to country driving, as well as the cost involved to every business out in western NSW who rely on people to travel out here that provide goods and services, it’s an absolute joke."It would take three days to get a truck load of fuel out west.“To say that they are doing it for safety but then to add hours to a journey out west just doesn’t make sense,” said Mayor Marsden.Greg Whitely Mayor of Warren - [Image Warren Shire Council]Greg Whitely Mayor of Warren said this proposal is totally unrealistic.“In my opinion this has come from above without any thought for the consequences,” Mayor Whiteley said.Country Women's Association Chief Executive Officer Danica Leys speaking up on behalf of country people at Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety - [Image NSW Legislative Assembly]CWA Chief Executive Officer Danica Leys, Roy Butler MP and Phyllis Miller spoke passionately on behalf of rural and regional people at a public hearing yesterday with the Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety about the issue.All three spoke with first-hand knowledge of rural roads, from lived experience, with the united belief being the need to fix roads rather than reduce speed limits, for the safety of rural people and those who travel on rural and regional roads.Member for Barwon Roy Butler at Joint Standing Committee hearing on Road Safety - [Image NSW Legislative Assembly]NSW Farmers Association says that better roads should be the priority not slowing speed limits."Better roads, not slower trucks, are what’s needed to reduce the surging road toll in the regions," said NSW Farmers’ Business Economics and Trade Committee Chair John Lowe."With studies showing farm workers are four times more likely to die on the nation’s roads than any other driver, as NSW local roads face a $3.4 million dollar backlog in repairs."Labor Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain - [Image Australian Labor Party]But Labor Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain says the consultation on a default speed limit for unsealed roads is to understand the various issues and views from road safety experts, industry and the community, and to inform a Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) by the Department of Infrastructure. ‘This review has been an action under the National Road Safety Action Plan since at least 2018, when Michael McCormack held the portfolio as Deputy Prime Minister,” said Minister McBain. “The RIA was agreed to by all States and Territories in a bid to help reduce the risk of crashes, death and serious injuries on our roads.“At the moment, some roads in Australia do not have sign-posted speed limits. This means that a default speed limit applies on those roads. “The Australian Road Rules state that the default speed limit on roads outside of built-up areas is 100km/h. However, there is no default speed limit for unsealed roads. “Consultation is now open and interested stakeholders are urged to have their say and contribute to how we can work together to save lives on our roads. “Our CMA Board and Members are very disappointed, to be frank, at what appears to be an alarming disconnect between our Australian Government and the real-world experience of using our rural, remote and regional roads," Mayor Firman said.“Our Board and Members have made submissions opposing the lowering of default speed limits and we appreciate the opportunity to do so."We trust these submissions will enlighten those behind this excessive and unrealistic proposal and encourage them to rethink it," Mayor Firman said.“CMA is encouraged, however, that in discussions with our NSW Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport the Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP, she has assured us that this is just one part of the process, and the NSW Government will genuinely consult with Councils and communities before any change to NSW road rules are considered,” he said.Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller representing Lachlan Shire at Joint Standing Committee hearing on Road Safety - [Image NSW Legislative Assembly]

Locals in Narromine, Coonamble, Nyngan and Cobar may notice a plane flying a little lower than usual tomorrow.There's no need for alarm. A twin-engine Cessna Conquest is scheduled to cover the area around the aerodromes in each town to check for any new obstacles in the take-off and landing paths. Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) spokesman Steve Creedy said the pilot may fly as low as 60 metres.  "Safety is a priority for CASA and this program is aimed at ensuring that pilots following published instrument flight procedure paths – where they use cockpit instruments to land and take off from aerodromes in your area – can do so safely," Mr Creedy said. "We may find obstacles that have been built since the procedure was designed or last revalidated, although there are requirements for people to advise the appropriate authority. "We also examine whether the aerodrome infrastructure supports the procedures, looking at factors such as the runway width, the wind direction indicators (windsocks) and aerodrome lighting."The twin-engine plane is scheduled to fly over the Coonamble area on 6 November. [IMAGE: River McCrossen]"During the checks we record our flight tracks over the ground as well as our altitude and airspeed which we can reference later, overlaying those tracks against the actual procedure designs for further evaluation. "We often cover a number of aerodromes on each mission." A safety checking aircraft will also fly over Condobolin on Friday 7 October. Mr Creedy said the process may take one to two hours per location, depending on factors like air traffic, obstacles and the complexity of the flight procedure CASA are checking. Obstacles can include towers, trees, masts or buildings, which are marked on charts. Aerodromes are generally checked every five years.  CASA makes the checks at around 340 aerodromes and helicopter landings in Australia and as far as Antarctica. Instrument flight procedures are available in the Australian Aeronautical Information Publication.

The latest Royal Life Saving Australia (RLSA) research shows that the risk of drowning rises sharply for teenagers, between the ages of 10 and 20 years, a massive 1300% or thirteen times (13x).RLSA is encouraging parents to consider more swimming lessons for 8,9,10-year-olds prior to entering high school. Renewing the focus on learn-to-swim programs in the early years could be the key to turning the stats around and keeping young people safe.Locals say both parents and councils have a role to play.“Swimming and water safety lessons may keep children safe as they head into teenage and young adult years, when drowning increases thirteen-fold,” says RLSA.New data shows that drowning in 15 to 20-year-olds has increased by 34% in the five years since 2021, compared to the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic. A figure causing concern.According to RLSA over 10 million swimming lessons were missed due to the pandemic, and these children are now teenagers, who now can’t swim, so swimming at beaches and in rivers could cause significant danger without the skills to support these environments.Nyngan Kids at Squad training Nyngan Pool - [Image Nyngan Swimming Club]“We have seen a massive drop off in the number of kids that can swim 50 metres,” said Jenny Griffiths Nyngan Swimming Club coach and lifetime supporter.“I see less and less children at the school carnivals each year. Learning to swim is an important life skill and a lifesaving one too.“Take your little kids to the pool, join your local swim club and see what lessons are available, it may just save your child’s life,” said Mrs Griffiths.Peter Shanahan of Cobar at Cabarita Swimming Centre where he learnt to swim over 65 years ago - [Image D. Shanahan}Peter Shanahan has been a swimmer his whole life and managed Cobar Swimming pool complex along with wife Dianne for many years, but Mr Shanahan said it's not just COVID-19 which has caused these problems but years of systemic decline.“In 1970 we had around 1200 people a day coming through to go swimming, and in the seventies and eighties around one hundred and twenty thousand people at the pool each season. "Nowadays if you drive past the pool, you may see ten cars there. “In 2009 we were putting sixty thousand people through in a year but in 2010 that went down to forty thousand and has been on a gradual fall ever since.“Unfortunately, Councils have allowed pools to decline over the years, the cleanliness and the care for the lawns and surrounding gardens is not like it used to be.“Kids out here, lots of parents work shift work in the mines and are too tired or don’t have the time to take kids to the pool after they have worked a twelve-hour shift. “In the seventies kids came to the pool early in the morning and stayed all day. "They usually had no parents with them, so they had to learn quick smart how to swim, how to cope with being dived on by other kids and how to keep themselves safe.“We made sure as pool managers to seek out the kids who couldn’t swim and get them going, the older kids were great, they helped the little ones, some as young as five, who learnt to swim like fish with everyone’s help.“Overweight kids and adults don’t feel comfortable coming to the pool in case they are teased or laughed at, and this means these kids don’t get swim training.“It is not just the pool that has seen a decline, it is all sports and sporting facilities in the town. Phones, computers, TV, have all taken the place of exercise and we have become an inactive nation.“Whether it is a lack of parental guidance or not I am not sure, the Royal Life Saving Society has a right to be worried with these alarming new statistics. “These drownings are all very preventable with lessons and exposure to swimming experiences. Confidence is everything so work on making your child confident around water. "Swimming has so much to teach kids, its a vital skill to have," said Mr Shanahan.Nyngan kids gathered with coach Jenny Griffiths at Nyngan Pool - [Image Nyngan Swimming Club]Johanna Lane, mother of three and Nyngan Swimming Club committee member said the importance of learning life skills that come with swimming are endless.“Skills that come with swimming regardless of if it is in a pool, dam or river or any body of water are vital.“Too many kids from outside of Australia (and inside Australia as well) who come to our pools and waterways who have drowned or almost drowned is insane. “Parents today don’t realise the importance of these life skills; it’s going to come to a point where our kids out west won’t be able to have a swimming carnival as many of the kids can’t swim and the child to teacher ratio is not enough to cover those who cannot swim.Kids hard at work at Nyngan Pool [Image Nyngan Swimming Club]“If your children quit lessons before 7, a second dose of swimming at age 10 or before is a lifesaving idea. Whether to build confident swimmers, encourage them into sport and recreational activities, and to prevent drowning later in life, swimming is for life, and no child should miss out,” Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Dr Justin Scarr. If your child is unable to complete this checklist, it may be time to head back to the pool. Can your 10-year-old swim 50 metres and float for two minutes?If they fell from a boat or slipped off rocks, could they float and/or swim 50-100m to safety?If peer pressure meant they jumped from a jetty or rocks, could they then swim to safety?If they were caught in a river current, would they know what to do? Royal Life Saving says there are a few ways to help. Try contacting your nearest swim school and enrolling in lessons or holiday courses. Spend more time at the local pool to boost confidence. Join a swimming or lifesaving club or try water sports like water polo or learning to surf.

It will set the Orana region's transport agenda for the next 20 years, covering everything from bus connections and rest stops, to rail line improvements and road network maintenance.NSW Roads Minister Jenny Atchison has unveiled the draft Central West and Orana Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) for public consultation, calling on the region's residents to be "frank and fearless" in saying what they want to see.The plan cites large population jumps in regional centres Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo and some small increases in all but a handful of shires in the next two decades.It also outlines the area's three-times state the average fatality rates on our roads.In Bathurst Monday 3 November launching the plan the Minister said widespread consultation with community leaders in every LGA in the Orana and Central West had formulated the plan. "This is not some political whimsical story, it’s a plan to get where people want to go," she told those attending."This covers 20 councils, business, community more than 800 stakeholders in Orana and Central West."These regions are the powerhouse of NSW with agriculture, mining and now the renewable energy roll out plus many Aboriginal communities…now its time for the community to have their say.’’"Safety is my number one priority," the Minister said."And the factors behind the increasing fatalities in this region needed addressing but also the economic benefits that will come from things like the Inland Rail, Parkes Activation Project and Renewable Energy roll out are good stories. ‘’We want you to be frank and fearless telling us what you want."Minister Aitchison in Bathurst on Monday.The Minister had an unlikely ally in NSW Shadow Police Minister Paul Toole, who congratulated the minister on the plan while Bathurst Mayor Robert Taylor said the plan was strong.He said he and fellow mayors will take a good look at the vision from the state government."Communities should engage with this," he said. The Draft Plan includes 60 initiatives, with most requiring further investigation to determine their progress to development and delivery. There are projects across the board for shires in the Western Plains.The draft plan suggests: undertaking a corridor assessment for the Dubbo to Coonamble rail corridor to identify both freight productivity improvements and maintenance priorities, and to inform future proposed upgrades on the corridor.delivering improved rest stop opportunities across the region to support the safe and efficient movement of heavy vehicles, including both heavy vehicle rest areas and green reflector sites (informal rest areas). developing corridor plans to assess asset condition and proactively plan and seek funding for maintenance and upgrades for the next 20 years for the Newell, Castlereagh, Mitchell and Great Western highways.investigating an upgrade of the Newell and Oxley Highway intersection. investigating grade-separated crossings of Inland Rail to complement the Narromine to Narrabri (Stage 2) construction.The Minister says the Newell Highway rated as one of the worst stretches of the road network and is being looked at.‘’There was a promise beforethe election by the Opposition to make it flood-proof but this will cost literally millions possibly billions," she said."What we need to be is smart and sensible and other parts of the Newell Highway also need to be looked at.’’‘’We know roads 60 to 70% of deaths are about speeding and fatigue and a recent survey said  11,000 people were found not be wearing seatbelts. Many of those in the region.’’NSW Transport spokesperson for Orana and Central West Holly Davies encouraged communities in the Western Plains to give their voice to the proposals within the Plan.‘’Its important to look at these plans and have your say," she said. The draft plan, supporting materials and details of local drop-in sessions where you can speak with the team are available here. Submissions close midnight on Sunday 14 December,.You can also email: [email protected] or write to: Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans, C/O Strategic Transport Planning Branch, Locked Bag 928, North Sydney NSW 2059.

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a vehicle stolen in Nyngan over the weekend which they believe could be being used to commit further crimes.At about 5.30pm on Sunday 2 November 2025, a 44-year-old man parked his vehicle – a Volkswagen Utility – at a carpark on the intersection of Nyngan and Pangee Street in Nyngan.When he returned the next day, there was no vehicle to be found.Officers attached to Central North Police District were notified of the theft and commenced investigations.Following inquiries, it was identified the Volkswagen was stolen about 1.30am on Monday 3 November 2025 and a single cabin Toyota Landcruiser was seen driving with the stolen vehicle.Both vehicles were seen crossing the Bogan River a short time later.As investigations continue, police have released an image of the stolen and are appealing for assistance to locate it as they believe it is being used to commit further offences.The vehicle is described as being a grey 2021 Volkswagen Amarok with a black bull bar, snorkel and tool accessible tray area.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Central North Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00

Narromine's dedicated Lions President Viv Halbisch was honoured recently at the District Convention in Bathurst with the International President’s Award, a prestigious recognition presented by Past District Governor Ian Acret.The award was signed by International President Dr. Fabricio Oliveira and acknowledges distinguished achievements in fulfilling the mission of Lions Clubs International.''I was really surprised by the award but very thrilled our club has been honoured," Mrs Halbisch said when she accepted the accolade at the convention on 25 October.''We are only a tiny club of 20 members so its a big win for a little club.''Her fellow Lions were as excited as Viv was.''We are especially proud to share that only one such award was presented, making this an exceptional honour for Lion Viv and our entire club," said Club Secretary Karen Shearwood."Congratulations, President Viv, on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition.'' Viv says she was particularly proud to receive the recognition from past Governor Ian Acret from Forbes.''I was president for two years then took a break and for the last six years have been Club president.''Viv works in other areas of the community helping the Uniting Church, Meals on Wheels and the local Golf Club.''I get a bit time off from my life as a farmer and off our Dandaloo property with my hard working boys, so I'm always happy to help and be involved.," she said.Raffles for Mothers and Father's Day plus barbecues are busy to help fund raising. "Our Christmas Cakes are selling well so I encourage everybody to get out there and buy a few,'' says Viv, not wanting to miss a chance to promote Lions activities.She also encourages others to join Narromine Lions . ''If you want to come and join as a volunteer you would be warmly welcomed.''

Lottie Rae of Trangie is over the moon this week after competing on heat 1 of the Portrait of the Year program on ABC TV on Sunday night.She wowed the judges and took out the top spot, much to the excitement of her family and friends.To enter the competition, Lottie had to submit a self-portrait, and the judges immediately loved her style so much they invited her onto the show.From there Lottie was one of nine artists from all around Australia, split into groups of three (4 professional artists and 5 amateurs) who were given four hours to race against the clock and paint the portrait of a well-known Australian.Lottie was beyond thrilled, when she discovered her celebrity was none other than iconic legendary Australian artist Ken Done.Authentically vibrant Lottie Rae with some of her art pieces [Image Lottie Rae]“What an absolute honour and dream come true to paint the one and only Ken Done,” said Lottie.“Funny story, but the day before I went to paint at portrait artist, I was walking down Pitt Street in Sydney, and I was on the phone to mum.“Mid-sentence I cut mum off and said ‘Oh my god mum Ken Done is standing next to me’.“I freaked out but was too embarrassed to approach him."Mum said imagine if you painted him tomorrow, and the rest they say is history,” Lottie laughs.Ken Done with winning portrait by Trangie's Lottie Rae [Image supplied]Lottie, who has been kicking goals this year with her quirky relatable art pieces that conjure up good times at the local pub surrounded by mates, life on the farm, days at the beach and a peek back to times when we were way cooler, have taken her on adventures of collaboration and stepping out of her comfort zone.“I’m just here to give it a crack,” Lottie told the judges. “The only training I’ve ever had is as a barista, so this is a bit wild for me."To be awarded the winning painting, the celebrity's had to choose one of the three portraits that had been painted of them and then the three judges of the event had to choose the best overall in their eyes.Lottie will now be in the semi-finals to compete for title of 2025 National Portrait winner.Award winning multi disciplinarian artist Abdul Abdullah [Image Art Gallery NSW]The judges were Bree Pickering Director National Portrait Gallery of Australia, Robert Wellington Associate Professor of Art History at Australian National University, and award winning multi disciplinarian artist Abdul Abdullah, who were all struck with Lottie’s ability to bring energy to her artistry.“Lottie struck gold on Sunday night,” said judge Abdul Abdullah. “She was up against some real professionals, but her application of paint was really fantastic. “Lottie was a little bit more of an adventure, the spark and energy that she created to me was an obvious choice,” said Mr Abdullah.Lottie with some of her artwork - [Image Lottie Rae]Despite the fact they referred to Lottie as a Wagga Wagga girl, she was quick to correct this across her social media pages.“No hate to Wagga Wagga,” she said. “But I am proudly and loudly from the best place on earth Trangie. “I’m very shocked,” said Lottie straight after her win, “But it’s a win for country kids.“We don’t get anything like this where we are from and there are little kids out there who really want to have a crack too because I certainly wasn’t expecting to clean this up.“I am forever grateful and blessed for the support."

The Orana Mid-Western Police District will be one of three areas trialling a new system notifying domestic violence survivors when their abuser is out of gaol. During the 12-month trial, DV Notify will send a text or email when a perpetrator has been taken into custody or released. The service will automatically send to contacts given to NSW Police. “We know that many victim-survivors are living in a state of constant uncertainty and fear, not knowing when their alleged perpetrator will be released from custody," NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said."This information will empower victim-survivors to plan for their safety with more confidence."Dr Tonkin said the service will connect victim-survivors to local support services. They will not receive updates on the perpetrator once they are in prison unless they join the Victims Register. Victim-survivors can opt out of the messages through a link, although they won't be able to opt back in for that particular matter. The number of domestic violence-related assaults recorded in the 12 months to June 2025. Rates are recorded per 100,000 people. Boxes with n.c mark rates that were not calculated by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR). [SOURCE: BOCSAR] The Far West and Orana statistical area, which includes most of the Western Plains, recorded about 1820 incidents of domestic violence-related assault, more than three times the NSW rate.  The federal and NSW governments each put $3.9 million to design, build and pilot the program. “This service has been co-designed with victim-survivors to ensure it is trauma-informed, culturally responsive and focused on real safety outcomes, connecting people directly to local, specialist support when they need it most,” said Jodie Harrison, NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.“I want to thank the victim-survivors who shared their experiences to help us design a system that genuinely puts their safety first."The trial will also take place in the Liverpool Police Area Command and Manning-Great Lakes Police District.

Police are investigating after a four-deck truck rollover killed more than 230 lambs near Gulargambone this morning. Emergency services were called to Gulargambone Road at around 9:30 on 3 November, on the western outskirts of the town. Police say the 40-year-old male driver, who the Western Plains App understands was travelling towards the town, was the sole occupant and uninjured. There were around 465 head on board, of which police say about half died on impact, "with others euthanised at the scene by responding agencies and the owner." "As investigations continue police are urging anyone with information about the crash – or was in the area at the time with any available dashcam/mobile phone footage – to contact Coonamble Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000." The sheep were locally owned, while the driver was with a Dubbo carrier. Services including NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Service (SES) and the Rural Fire Service attended the scene, along with Local Land Services and a veterinarian. The owner said they expect more sheep will need to be euthanased.

Earlier this year, firefighters in Sydney’s southwest battled a fierce blaze after an e-scooter exploded, injuring two men - one struck by shrapnel, the other suffering smoke inhalation.Investigations suggest a mismatched charger and a modified device were to blame, two of the most common causes of lithium-ion battery fires.It’s a stark reminder that prevention is far better than cure when it comes to these increasingly dangerous incidents.With 241 battery-related fires already recorded in NSW this year, the Minns Labor Government has announced regulations designed to curb the growing threat, and there's still time for you to have a say.The proposed rules, now open for public consultation, would make it mandatory for battery brand owners to take greater responsibility for the environmental and safety impacts of their products.NSW is the first state in Australia to move toward regulating battery production and disposal under the Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act 2025.The draft laws would apply to small, removable, or rechargeable batteries under five kilograms, including those found in e-bikes, e-scooters, and household devices.Under the proposed framework, companies that make or sell batteries would need to participate in a product stewardship scheme, paying a fee to support safer disposal and recycling.The funds would go toward initiatives such as public education campaigns, establishing dedicated battery collection points, and improving reporting on the number of batteries supplied in NSW each year.Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the new regulations were crucial for community safety.“We’ve seen a rise in battery fires over recent years, driven by the growing number of products powered by lithium-ion batteries,” Ms Sharpe said.“These fires are hot, fast and incredibly difficult to put out."I’m proud that NSW is the first state to move to regulate batteries."This regulation is crucial to reduce the risks batteries can pose when damaged, mishandled or improperly disposed of.”New regulations are coming into play to help reduce fire risk, but consumers must also use lithium batteries responsibly.Battery manufacturers who fail to comply could face penalties of up to $880,000.The government’s shift from a voluntary to a mandatory stewardship system aims to ensure accountability across the entire product life cycle, reducing the number of battery-related fires and promotinga more circular economy.At the same time, NSW Fair Trading has introduced new safety standards for e-micromobility devices, such as e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, and e-skateboards, effective from February this year.These standards require that all devices and their components meet strict safety and electrical compliance requirements.Mandatory labelling and certification will also roll out up until early 2026, alongside an information standard that ensures consumers are informed about fire safety, storage, and disposal.Consumers need to be responsible too!A recent Department of Customer Service survey revealed worrying public complacency around battery safety.While 44 per cent of people understood the risks, most still engaged in unsafe charging habits.Around 73 per cent of users charged devices while unattended, 70 per cent charged them near living spaces or exits, and 51 per cent used low-quality chargers.Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said firefighters were responding to lithium-ion battery blazes almost daily.“We had at least 318 lithium-ion battery fires in NSW last year, up from 272 in 2023 and 165 in 2022,” he said.“Two people died last year, and families have narrowly escaped house fires caused by overcharging or using incompatible chargers."These fires are happening in homes nearly every day. It’s a recipe for disaster.”Commissioner Fewtrell urged residents to follow the “Shop, Charge and Recycle Safely” campaign to protect themselves and their families.Safety tips include:Always use the charger supplied with your device.Don’t charge lithium-ion batteries while sleeping or unattended.Avoid charging near doorways or exits.Stop using damaged or swollen batteries.Recycle used batteries at a proper collection point rather than throwing them in the bin.Public consultation on the proposed regulations is open until 14 November 2025 via the NSW EPA’s Have Your Say website.

“Five years ago, when we were in the midst of a terrible drought, ideas were brought to the table on how we could future proof ourselves for water preservation, but five years on nothing has changed,."Bogan Shire Mayor Glenn Neill is the chair of the Alliance of Western Councils, who recently hosted a Roundtable on Water Security for Critical Human Needs at Narromine.“Despite years of planning and the lessons from the worst drought in 130 years, water security for regional towns remains unfinished business," Mr Neill said."This discussion was about turning lived experience into action."Key water authorities and regional leaders discussed the urgent need for secure and sustainable regional water supplies and the ways and means to make this happen.Senior representatives attending were Mr Andrew McConville (Chief Executive, Murray–Darling Basin Authority), Mr Sean Sullivan (Deputy Secretary, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water), Mr Simon Banks (Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder), and representatives from the NSW Water Directorate.“We had a good group of federal representatives and a couple from state who attended the meeting.," Mr Neill said."We had speakers from local councils who told of the issues we have had with water over the last few years and how it has directly affected families, businesses and Industries.“Bogan Shire is in a good position with its off-river storage, and we have put money into the channel, but that doesn’t matter if there is no water in the Macquarie River system.Bogan River Nyngan [Image Angie White]“There was talk during the drought that Burrendong capacity was going to be increased, in what was deemed a relatively easy proposal, but this has never happened, and other suggestions never came to fruition either. So, what do we do next.“Every community out here that you listen to all say the same, that we need to store more water when it is available.“Unfortunately the people who actually live in these rural areas are not being listened to by the powers that be."Despite there being a lot of great ideas about how we can fix the situation, no one is willing to put them into action."In the end the people that will be hurt are those in rural Australia when we run out of water,” said Councillor Neill.Alliance Chair and Bogan Shire Council Mayor, Glen Neill [Image Bogan Shire Council]Warren Mayor Greg Whiteley says he is fired up about the issue and hopes that getting the problem in front of the appropriate authorities may move the process higher up the pile and finally give rural people a look in.“Our aim for the meeting was to promote critical human needs for water use for towns and villages,” said Councillor Whiteley.“Each town has different requirements. Bourke currently only has 88 days left in their weir pool, Warren was upset when the river stopped flowing in 2018/19 and Nyngan and Narromine both have issues along with all the villages.“We discussed infrastructure and the expense of water and sewerage systems in our region and considering how expensive all of that is, we talked about how Councils could afford to pay for this sort of work."Warren Mayor Greg Whiteley [Image Coonamble Times]Mr Whitely says, overall it was a productive day.“What comes of the day, we are all a bit unsure, but we are hoping that Burrendong capacity is increased by at least 20%, to provide us with an extra year of critical needs water supply.“At the moment in the water sharing plan, critical water needs are guaranteed for two years, another 200 gigalitres of extra storage at Burrendong would give a third year of supply.“There is no use talking about this problem when the drought is on, we need to prepare and be organised now, to safe proof us for the future.“We recently had a demographer out from Melbourne, one of the best in Australia, who gave us some interesting facts. "People in Nyngan, Warren and Narromine shire, purely based on agricultural production alone, not inclusive of mining, are producing double the average gross domestic product. "Add in the mining contribution from Cobar and Nyngan and that blows the figures out once again, so rural Australia is more than pulling its weight.“Our local members Roy Butler and Jamie Chaffey, are doing a great job, but they are looking after nearly half of the state, a huge job, and this adds to the frustration that we are not being looked after out here, considering the important part we play in Australia’s economy."

Rani Diggs, a young woman who operates heavy machinery for Gilgandra Shire, has recently been catapaulted into the state spotlight.She was awarded the Regional Rural Young Achievers Award at the 2025 Minister's Awards for Women in Local Government, amongst a field of incredible young achievers.The award winners were announced in a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, celebrating the 18th year for the prestigious awards.Rani, who is only 20 years of age, said when she Initially received the email congratulating her on the award she had won, she didn’t think much of it.“When I had a meeting with David, the General Manager, about the expenses of the trip, he told me that Doug Batten (the mayor) and Daryl Colwell were coming with me, which made me realise how special this award really was. “Receiving the award from the NSW Minister was just a whole different level of special to me. “I think the Young Achievers Award for women in Local Government is a great award to be presented to young people in the workforce, recognising the work we do. “This year, I was privileged to have everyone hear about my growth and achievements."Rani has had two very different roles in her time with the shire and says she has enjoyed both.“I have worked two jobs within Council, the first one being a kitchen hand at Cooee Lodge Residential Aged Care Facility. "I found that working in this area helped me get to where I am today. “It takes a very special person to work in aged care. "I miss seeing the elderly every day, but I am very thankful the Council has other options available, including the Apprentice Plant Operator, which I thought I would give a go. “And so here I am today, operating a grader and leading a team,” said Rani.Rani Diggs pictured with mum Danielle, the Hon Ron Hoenig MP and Gilgandra Mayor Doug Batten [Image Gilgandra Shire Council]Rani began working with Council in 2021 as a Personal Carer at Cooee Lodge Residential Aged Care Facility while still at school, where her care and professionalism helped create a supportive environment for both residents and staff.In 2023, Rani successfully gained a Plant Operator Civil Construction apprenticeship, earning tickets across multiple civil machines, securing her HR truck licence, and completing a Certificate III in Civil Construction, all within just two years. By June 2024, she had progressed into a permanent Roller Plant Operator role.Now acting in the role of a Road Maintenance Team Leader / Grader Operator, Rani delivers a critical service for the community, grading and maintaining Council’s unsealed rural road network.Daryl Colwell Director of Infrastructure Gilgandra Shire [Image Gilgandra Shire Council]“Rani has progressed to being a highly capable road grader operator, supervising a team of long-term, experienced male colleagues,” says Daryl Colwell Director of Infrastructure Gilgandra Shire."As the team leader, Rani is responsible for coordinating team members, liaising with local landholders and local contractors to deliver a highly valued service of road maintenance. "It's a responsibility she handles with maturity and confidence,” says Daryl Colwell, Director of Infrastructure at Gilgandra Shire.Danielle Diggs, Rani’s mother who attended the event with her, says she was thrilled with this achievement. “Rani being recognised as the winner of the Young Achiever award across all Councils in NSW, this is a very proud moment for our family," she said.Rural Roads Coordinator, Ashley Hazelton, says Rani’s work is widely recognised.“Her quality of work is outstanding - we frequently receive compliments from landowners on the exceptional standard of her work. "Rani has become an invaluable member of the team.”Gilgandra Mayor Doug Batten with Rani Diggs and mum Danielle, [Image Gilgandra Shire Council]Gilgandra Shire Mayor, Doug Batten says Rani’s achievements reflect her resilience, skill, and pride in her work.“She has already established herself as a role model. "Eight years ago, Council embarked on a journey to provide more roles to help develop and retain youth in our community, and Rani is a beneficiary of this program,” Councillor Batten said.According to Minister for Women Jodie Harrison, these awards shine the light on significant achievements of women working in councils in local communities.Minister for Women Jodie Harrison - [Image NSW Parliament]“The awards provide important recognition and celebrate the inspirational women in local government who are leading the way for the next generation of young women.“We have been making great inroads towards increasing female representation on our councils. "The number of women elected at last year’s local government elections reached a record 40.5 per cent of all councillors, but we know there is still more work to do.“These exceptional women are role models for those coming through to follow in their footsteps towards a meaningful career in councils.”

A man has died after his ute hit a tree near Burcher, south of Condobolin, yesterday morning Saturday 1 November.Emergency services were called to Burcher Road, Burcher, shortly before 6am yesterday, when a passing motorist saw the ute had left the road and struck a large gum tree.The driver, believed to be a 56-year-old local man, had died at the scene.Officers from Central West Police District have been told the man was last seen driving out of Burcher about midnight.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers or call 1800 333 000. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Brewarrina will receive extra help with its feral cat problem as one of 19 new local councils in line for the Keeping Cats Safe at Home (KCSAH) program. The program involves desexing and microchipping the critters, and educating their owners, to prevent them roaming and causing a nuisance. RSPCA NSW (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) will now deliver the program in 30 council areas using $6 million from the NSW government's Environmental Trust. "The Keeping Cats Safe At Home program delivers a win-win solution that benefits both pets and native wildlife," CEO Steven Coleman said. He also said the program will foster a "statewide cultural shift in how Australians care for their cats." The program began as a pilot in 2021 in 11 council areas including Walgett, where council documents report a significant drop in cat complaints.The number of cats impounded in Walgett Shire over recent years. SOURCE: Walgett Shire Council Annual Report 2022/2023  Since then, the number of cats impounded in that shire plummeted from 274 in the 2020-21 financial year to two in 2022-23. The program is separate to a research and desexing project for stray animals launched last year in Brewarrina with the NSW RSPCA. "The recent cat management inquiry has shown there is a lot of evidence that desexing cats not only helps protect the environment but is an important way to reduce pressure on council pounds and rehoming organisations," NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said. "Supporting this program is part of the government’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership through education and action." In August a NSW government inquiry into cat population management handed down a ten recommendations including grants to councils and rescue and rehoming organisations to carry out free and subsidised desexing programs. Concern over council resourcingWalgett Shire Council is weighing whether to continue the KCSAH program. A September meeting report said it is beneficial to the community. However, the report said it was "highly likely" that council support throughout the pilot exceeded the $5000 contribution made by the NSW RSPCA. It also said staff believed that the NSW RSPCA had provided "inadequate" information to inform resourcing commitments. "There's almost an expectation moving forward that we're going to be donating our time and resources to the continuation of the project with no financial compensation once again," said Donna Ausling, the council's Director of Planning, Environment and Economy at the at the 23 September meeting. "We do have some concerns with RSPCA's communication. We certainly think that that relationship could be strengthened and improved." Councillors voted unanimously to request further information from the NSW RSPCA, including a Councillor presentation, before choosing whether to participate in an extension of the project.

Carol Mudford is what we call in Australia a ‘doer’ - someone who sees a need and gets to it.And now everyone knows, following the recent announcement of the 2025 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, which saw Carol take home the national title. She was recognised for her vision, commitment and leadership in the shearing industry focusing on mental healthcare.Carol, a registered nurse, decided to take a turn down a different path and started shearing and wool handling, even competing in state and national events, where she fell in love with the people and industry. It wasn’t until the shearing industry lost three shearers in one week to suicide, one a young bloke she had worked with, that Carol decided something needed to be done for the industry she put her heart and soul into.Carol Mudford pictured at the Awards ceremony with sHedway Board Sarah Trebley, Taya Evans, Carol Mudford (wearing Smitten Merino) Correne Horenko [Image supplied]In 2023 Carol launched sHedway, a grassroots charity dedicated to suicide prevention aiming for positive mental health in the Australian shearing industry.In its first year, sHedway, delivered 48 events across Australia, providing the opportunity for support and the chance to share honest, forthright discussions, to two years later running multiple events every week.“It will take a few days, I’m sure, for the feelings to sink in,’ said Carol after her win.National Award runner up Isabella Thrupp with National winner Carol Mudford [Image AgriFutures]The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award is such a bigger experience than I first realised, and what an amazing alumni network of incredible women from across Australia doing good work for their communities while proactively supporting each other.“To see the short film of our story from the shearing sheds projected on to the big screen inside Parliament House was quite something, and I was so proud to stand onstage in an Australian made and owned woollen dress (Smitten Merino Tasmania).“I genuinely encourage every woman doing good work for rural Australia to apply. “I am very grateful for the amazing opportunity to share our sHedway story, remind Australians to buy and wear our incredible Australian wool, and to show everyone in the shearing sheds that we are seen, valued and cared about.“I hope that everyone in the sheds and those who support sHedway sees this award as a win for all of us.Moorambilla Voices Choir ready to sing at Parliament House for AgriFutures gala dinner [Image Moorambilla]The Western area was more than ably represented at the AgriFutures event, with students from the western area performing at the Gala Dinner.“Moorambilla Voices had the privilege of performing at the 2025 AgriFutures Dinner at Parliament House in Canberra, to an audience of over 500 people there to celebrate the extraordinary women driving positive change across rural and regional Australia,” said Founder, Artistic Director and Conductor Michelle Leonard.Cobar student Jasmine Livingstone and Cobar alumni Macee Brown were part of the group of singers to hit the stage along with nine other regional singers.Moorambilla Voices Choir performing at AgriFutures gala dinner [Image Moorambilla Voices]“Huge congratulations to National Winner Carol Mudford (sHedway - NSW/ACT) and National Runner Up Isabella Thrupp (Prinking in Pindan - WA), along with all the incredible finalists whose vision, leadership and dedication are transforming rural communities across Australia,” said Ms Leonard.“What an experience for our performers - to stand on that stage at Parliament House, voices raised together, sharing the power of music with such an inspiring audience. These are the moments that stay with you forever.“So proud of every single young person who performed. You were absolutely magnificent,” said Ms Leonard.

The majority of dead fish have been cleared from Trangie's Goan Waterhole as local conservationists look at flushing new water into the lagoon following a fish kill around mid-October. Narromine-based Tony Lees said there were still a few fish floating out of reach on deeper water on Thursday 30 Thursday. "I wasn't too keen to be swimming out there," he said. "I reckon we pulled 200 out. We didn't count them."Probably should have in hindsight, but, honestly, it wasn't a pleasant job. I wasn't going to be hanging around any longer than I needed to. "Our issue is we don't know how many were in there, so we don't know if they're all dead or if indeed some have survived." A spokesperson for NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed that authorities inspected the site on the 24 October.A native Cod caught up in the fish kill. [IMAGE: supplied] They said up to a few hundred fish were affected. Most were European Carp, but also "low numbers" of natives like Murray Cod, Bony Herring and Golden Perch.  The fish were disposed at the local tip. "The cause of death is likely linked to poor water quality, including low dissolved oxygen, with shallow water levels in the lagoon and high temperatures recently experienced in the area," the spokesperson said. Mr Lees also said that increased temperatures around mid-late October killed floating duckweeds, which sucked oxygen from the water when they sunk and decomposed. Mr Lees, who is involved in local environmental preservation, said a licence has been secured to deliver ten megalitres from the Macquarie River into the Waterhole - the equivalent of four Olympic swimming pools. He said it will be used to flush lower-oxygen water that drains into the system from the township. "It's not good quality water. It picks up a lot of nutrients, a lot of pollution, oil on the road from cars," Mr Lees said. "It's been 20 years since we've had a natural flow through the Goan to replace that water." He says overextraction for irrigation has prevented water in the Macquarie from reaching the Waterhole.

Investigations are continuing into Tuesday's October 28 mine explosion and a spokesperson for Polymetals Resources Ltd says the community and mine family are profoundly affected. While respecting the grief personnel are feeling, Executive Chairman Dave Sproule says the company is planning to recommence operations in a staged manner from next week. Exploration drilling is expected to recommence next week, as well as completion of planned statutory electrical works.  “Words fall short of how deeply affected the Polymetals’ family is by this tragic incident," Mr Sproule said."We’re devastated by what has happened and share our deepest thoughts and condolences with the families, their friends and our colleagues."We are doing everything we can to support those affected."The safety and well-being of our Team is the Company’s highest operational priority."We are working with the Authorities to assist their investigations as to how this incident occurred and will not rest until we understand what happened.” In a statement today (Friday 31 October), Polymetals Resources Ltd provided an update on the incident. Lost in the explosion were Patrick McMullen (known as “Ambrose”, aged 59, Mining Shift Supervisor) and Holly Clarke (aged 24, Charge-up Operator) who were working underground at the company’s Endeavor Mine last Tuesday. Both Holly and Patrick were qualified shotfirers. Shotfirers, or blasters, are skilled roles in mining operations.They  assemble, position, and detonate explosives to dislodge rocks and soil, both outdoors and underground. ‘’We also express our heartfelt wishes to MacKenzie Stirling, a member of the mining team, who is currently recovering at home," Mr Sproule said. "The Company is providing every possible support to the families of those who were lost and all those impacted as we work through this devastating period." Polymetals expressed gratitude to the first responders and Emergency Response Team, as well as local emergency services, the New South Wales Police Service and the NSW Resources Regulator for their support and involvement. Speculation on reasons why the explosion continue but the NSW Resources Regulator said it might take some time for results to come. A preliminary view is that the incident happened at around 3am (AEDT), approximately 700m underground, and is understood to have occurred during the time in which shot firing was being prepared as a secondary detonation activity. However, at this time, the cause of the incident is unknown. All mining and surface operations were immediately suspended, and the Company, and Authorities commenced investigations which are ongoing. It is hoped that outcomes from these investigations will help eliminate any re-occurrence of such an incident within the industry. In line with the planned stages for re-opening, personnel will begin to return to work from Wednesday 5 November 2025. Counselling will continue for team members with the progressive resumption of mining and processing activities.